Porsche's Radical Triple-Bank Engine: W12 Successor?

Porsche files patent for a mind-bending triple-bank engine

Porsche has filed a patent for a highly unconventional internal combustion engine: a true W-shaped configuration with three banks of cylinders. The design, revealed in recent filings, is not a simple pairing of two V-engines but a genuine three-row W layout that promises tighter packaging, refined airflow and potentially astonishing power.

What makes the design different?

According to the patent details, each cylinder bank has its own dedicated intake and exhaust passages. Porsche places a main intake plenum on top of the engine so cooler air can feed the cylinders directly. The intake routing is intentionally straight and low-friction to reduce pressure loss and intake air temperature — both critical for performance and efficiency.

Key engineering highlights include:

• True W configuration instead of two V engines joined together
• Separate intake and exhaust per cylinder head for optimized flow
• Top-mounted intake plenum for shorter, cooler airflow paths
• Potential support for three turbochargers or multiple forced-induction units

Performance expectations and comparisons

If Porsche equips this architecture with three turbochargers or a mixed forced-induction setup, the result could eclipse recent high-output W12 units. For context, Bentley's 6.0-liter W12 produced about 740 horsepower in its final forms. Porsche's patent hints at a package that could exceed that benchmark, pushing the boundaries of power density and thermal efficiency for a handcrafted internal combustion engine.

That said, patents are blueprints for ideas, not production promises. Still, this filing signals that the Volkswagen Group and Porsche remain committed to exploring high-performance ICE technology even as electrification accelerates.

Where might this engine appear?

Speculation is unavoidable. Candidates include a future Bugatti flagship, a Porsche hypercar, or a limited-run halo model that showcases extreme engineering. The triple-bank layout would be a natural fit where packaging, heat management and peak power are crucial—supercars and hyper-luxury grand tourers come to mind.

Insights for enthusiasts:

• Expect complex manufacturing and servicing requirements due to the unusual geometry.
• Thermal management appears to be a central focus, which could allow higher sustained power outputs.
• Integration with hybrid systems is possible, offering both instant electric torque and high-revving combustion power.

Whether or not the triple-bank engine reaches production, Porsche's patent demonstrates an ongoing willingness to innovate within the internal combustion realm. For petrolheads and industry watchers, it s a reminder that engineering creativity is far from exhausted even as the market pivots toward electrification.

Quote highlight: Porsche s patent shows that even in an EV era, the quest to redefine engine architecture continues.

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